Jack Grealish paid a heartwarming tribute to a fan in celebrating his goal in England's 6-2 win over Iran at the World Cup. The Manchester City and England forward wheeled away in celebration after his strike and surprised fans with a new dance.
It quickly emerged there was a special reason for the jig from the 27-year-old who came on as a second half substitute in the win. And it will come to the delight of young 11-year-old Man City fan Finlay.
Finlay was given the chance to meet his idol after writing Grealish a heartfelt message as part of the Premier League's 'Fan Mail' campaign.
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Finlay wrote to his favourite player earlier this year, referencing Grealish’s close bond with sister Holly, who also has the condition.
“I wish there were more people in the world just like you who treat people with disabilities the same as anyone else,” Finlay wrote.
Grealish followed up with a letter of his own and also made a surprise visit to meet Finlay in person.
It was there the youngster took his chance to suggest his next goal celebration.
Finlay initially wanted him to do the worm but the two finally landed on the dance that could be seen after England's sixth goal against Iran today. Despite it being a number of weeks since the two met and agreed on the celebration, Grealish warmed the hearts of thousands as the reason for the celebration became clear.
“First of all I’ve got to try and score, then I’ll do it for you, but I’ve only scored once this season,” Grealish said, in a video captured by the Premier League.
“I’ll do it for you, I promise, next time I score.”
Grealish took to Twitter after the victory over Iran and said: “For you Finlay,” alongside a clip of the original video and a picture of his celebration.
Speaking after the game coverage on BBC, Gary Lineker said: "That celebration was promised to a young fan called Finlay who has cerebral palsy. Jack’s sister also has cerebral palsy.”
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